A Tempest by Aimé Césaire is a modern adaptation of Shakespeare's The Tempest that begins with a shipwreck and follows the interactions between the shipwreck survivors and the island's residents. Césaire's play confronts themes of racism, exploitation, and violence through the characters of Ariel and Caliban, who seek freedom from their white master, Prospero, highlighting various approaches to liberation and resistance.

Aimé Césaire's A Tempest receives praise for its powerful adaptation of Shakespeare's play, injecting anti-colonial themes and African-Caribbean culture. Critics appreciate its poignant commentary on race and power, yet some argue the overt political tone detracts from character depth. A valuable read for those interested in postcolonial literature.

A reader who would enjoy Aimé Césaire's A Tempest is likely passionate about postcolonial literature and social justice themes. They might also appreciate reinterpretations of classic works, much like readers of Jean Rhys's Wide Sargasso Sea or Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart. Perfect for those interested in cultural critiques and African diasporic perspectives.

Mysterious / Gritty / Challenging / Contemplative / Emotional

- A Tempest was written by Aimé Césaire in 1969 as a postcolonial adaptation of Shakespeare’s The Tempest, focusing on themes of race and power dynamics.
- Aimé Césaire was a co-founder of the Négritude movement, which aimed to reclaim black cultural identity and heritage, and his adaptation of The Tempest reflects these ideals.
- The play was originally written in French and titled Une Tempête, and it was first performed at the Festival d'Hammamet in Tunisia in 1969.

**PROSPERO**  
The former Duke of Milan and now ruler of an island, Prospero is a sorcerer who uses his magical powers to control others on the island.

**MIRANDA**  
Prospero’s daughter, who left Milan with him when she was very young, and becomes engaged to Ferdinand, a fellow shipwreck survivor.

**ARIEL**  
A mulatto slave of Prospero with magical powers, known for his peaceful approach to conflict.

**CALIBAN**  
A black slave on the island, originally ruled by his late mother Sycorax, and resentful of Prospero's control.

**ALONSO**  
The king of Naples, who was involved in the usurpation of Prospero’s dukedom.

**FERDINAND**  
Alonso's son, who falls in love with Miranda upon meeting her.

**GONZALO**  
The counselor to Alonso, who admires the island's natural beauty and believes in respecting its resources and residents.

**ANTONIO**  
Prospero’s treacherous brother, who conspired to overthrow him and is contemptuous of the island's wildness.

**SEBASTIAN**  
Brother to Alonso, he is suggestible and easily influenced toward treacherous acts.

**STEPHANO**  
Alonso’s butler, a heavy drinker who dreams of taking control of the island.

**TRINCULO**  
Alonso’s jester, offers comic relief with his drunken antics, often in partnership with Stephano.

**ESHU**  
A trickster god from Yoruban mythology, who disrupts the engagement celebration with crude songs.

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